Lose weight

Have you ever asked yourself, "Do I need to lose weight?" To find out if you do, just jump on the scales! It is a simple question of knowing how much you weigh. Then use the BMI calculator that we provide in our 'tools' section (coming very soon - apologies). If you are two stone above your ideal weight, then you are classed as being obese and yes, you need to lose weight. Although being overweight (but not obese) is not necessarily unhealthy for you, image conscious people may feel more inclined to want to try and lose weight?" This is more a case of trying to meet the expectations of society than attempting to lose weight for health benefits, although the two are, in essence a means to an end.

Through weight loss, you can gain confidence and health advantages such as looking and feeling better and having lots more energy. Let's be honest, if you have to ask if you need to lose weight?" then you probably do or at least tone up a little. High blood pressure, poor diet and little exercise are all key indicators of the need to reduce your weight.

Your diet is important in finding out whether or not you need to decrease your weight. For example, if you consume a lot of salt in your diet, (a lot of salt is considered to be 0.5g sodium/100g of food by FSA) then you will retain more water and that can make you bloated but doesn't necessarily mean you need to lose weight. Find all the information you require by consulting your doctor before beginning any weight loss programmes or diet plans.

If you want to determine whether or not you need to lose weight and the benefits and risks involved then consult your doctor firstly. Using Body Mass Index (BMI) figures combined with calorie charts and Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), you can establish how much weight you need to lose. It is also very important to be aware of the potential for becoming disillusioned with an eating disorder. Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa for example are highly detrimental to your health so be careful not to become overwhelmingly obsessive regarding weight loss. It can be difficult knowing how to manage your weight so find a diet that can allow you to maintain and sustain your ideal weight.